Red Cliff Reclaims 80 Acres, Continues Land Repatriation Efforts

Forested land will provide more hunting and harvesting opportunities for tribal members

The Red Cliff Band has acquired another 80 acres of vacant forested land within Reservation boundaries as part of its ongoing land repatriation efforts. The properties are located on Sand Point Road and will provide more excellent hunting and harvesting opportunities for tribal members. Howa!

This recent acquisition increases the Tribe’s total land occupation and preservation to over 15,000+ acres.

“Our membership has made it clear they want more opportunities to hunt, harvest, and practice our Treaty Rights,” said Red Cliff Chairwoman Nicole Boyd. “Reclaiming Tribal land is incredibly important for providing safe access for our people, and for the Tribe’s ability to properly manage and sustain the land for our future generations.”

Property Location - Tribal vs Private Land

The newly repatriated parcels are located on Sand Point Road with Tax ID numbers 5342 and 5343. Please see attached map.

Please note that these 80 acres are still bordered by private land. Tribal member hunters and harvesters are reminded to check the Bayfield County Tax Parcel map so you can be sure to stay on tribal land while hunting and/or harvesting.

Hunting and harvesting questions, including information on necessary permits and seasonal requirements can be directed to the Red Cliff Conservation Wardens at 715-779-3732. Information can also be found in the Red Cliff Code of Laws or through GLIFWC’s NAGFA portal.

Importance of Land Repatriation and Tribal Goals

Established by treaty, Gaa-Miskwaabikaang (Red Cliff Reservation) now encompasses over 15,000 acres. However, in the years leading up to 2006, tribal aki (land) holdings within the boundary had dwindled to under 8,000 acres – which is only 55% of the original land base. The result became a “checkerboard” ownership within the boundaries, with former reservation aki being held by Bayfield County, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and in private non-member status.

With a growing population and limited aki base, repatriation of lands is a high priority for Gaa-Miskwaabikaang. Expanded residential, municipal, agricultural, and commercial space on the Reservation is crucial for meeting the needs of the Tribal Membership. In June of 2022, the Tribe successfully reclaimed ownership of all Tribal land that was previously held by Bayfield County. However, non-members still hold many properties within the Reservation boundaries. The Tribe will continue to pursue reclamation of all Tribal lands for our membership.

Tribal Council Approves Installation Of Flock Safety System On A One-Year Trial Basis

Camera system will be used to help law enforcement respond to drug trafficking, missing persons, human trafficking, and violent crimes

With a 6-1 vote on October 20, the Red Cliff Tribal Council has approved the installation of a Flock Safety camera system and license plate reader at the intersection of Hwy 13 and Blueberry Road in partnership with Bayfield County Sheriff’s Department. The system will be utilized on a one-year trial basis and is expected to greatly improve community safety and our officers’ ability to respond to crime.

Tribal Council continues to receive directive from community members urging us to battle the drug crisis and improve general safety. This system is another tool that will enable law enforcement to track license plates and distinguishable vehicle information that is connected to a larger network of cameras and law enforcement agencies, including cameras already in use across Bayfield County and other counties throughout the state. This will help our officers specifically in cases of drug trafficking, missing persons or vehicles, human trafficking, and violent crimes.

The idea of this system is similar to the Red Cliff Pharmacy’s participation in the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, which allows our pharmacy, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and public health officials to work together in reducing the misuse and abuse of prescription drugs.

Addressing Potential Concerns

The Tribal Council wants to make it clear that this camera system does NOT track or surveillance people and we are not monitoring the movements of our community members. The system tracks vehicles — specifically license plates, make, model, and distinguishing features in instances of criminal activity or missing persons. This system does NOT use facial recognition, and it does NOT identify drivers, passengers, or owners of the vehicles.

Federal agencies like Homeland Security and ICE do not have access to this data without consent from Red Cliff and Bayfield County Sheriff’s Department. This system will not be used to enforce any sort of federal immigration or deportation policies within our community.

Major Benefits

• Track vehicles involved in drug trafficking, burglary, and violent crime
• Respond to Amber Alerts and missing persons with real-time data
• Locate stolen vehicles and property faster
• Reduce response times and improve investigative accuracy

The Red Cliff Law Enforcement Commission has provided its support of this Flock Safety system. Tribal Council members Nicole Boyd, Rick Peterson, Butch Bresette, Angie LaPointe, Misty Nordin, and Nicole Gurnoe voted in favor. Council member Shania Nordby voted in opposition. Council members David Curran and Laura Gordon were excused and not present.

The system is expected to be installed by mid-November. Funds are allocated to support equipment like this through the annual State of Wisconsin County / Tribal Assistance Grant.

Please contact the Red Cliff Protective Services Division with any questions at 715-779-3733.

Notice To Public: Commercial Use of Tribal Logo

General Public and Community Members -- Please be advised that the tribal logo is the property of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, and its use is administered by the Band through its elected leadership (the Tribal Government).

Unauthorized commercial use of the tribal logo is strictly prohibited. Requests to use the tribal government logo for commercial purposes must be properly routed to tribal administration.

Instances of unauthorized commercial use will be referred to the Legal Department for follow-up and potential enforcement action. Violators risk tribal court enforcement, including substantial civil penalties.

Quarterly Tribal Council Retreat

The Tribal Council is set to meet for its quarterly retreat this Monday October 27 and Tuesday October 28 at the Red Cliff Court House.

Repatriation Committee Meeting

The Red Cliff Repatriation Committee is set to meet this Tuesday October 28 at the Tribal Historic Preservation Office (Cultural Grounds 36750 Hwy 13).

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM.

Please call 715-779-3761 for more information

November FoodShare Benefits Delayed

Any remaining October benefits balance should be used before November 1

As of Monday morning, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, FoodShare (SNAP) benefits are still scheduled to be delayed in November, and they may not be available at all in November.

It is recommended to use any remaining balance on your card before the end of October to stock up on food.

The Tribe continues to closely monitor the situation and continues to take swift action on this FoodShare issue. Administration and staff have been building food reserves, hosting food drives, sponsoring community meals, and helped interested community members transition to the Food Distribution "commodities" program to ensure that no one is food insecure.

If you or someone you know is in need or is experiencing food insecurity, please call Red Cliff Family & Human Services at 715-779-3706.

This notice from the USDA Food & Nutrition Service provides guidance to all SNAP offices.

Area Food Resources

• Red Cliff Food Shelf – 715-779-3706 / 715-779-3740
• CORE Community Resources Food Pantry – www.corecr.org/foodpantry 715-779-3457
• The BRICK Ministries – www.thebrickcares.org/food-shelf/ 715-682-7425
• South Shore Food Shelf -715-682-7425
• Ruby’s Pantry - www.rubyspantry.org/location/172
• Stone Soup – Pay-as-you-can monthly meals 715-209-0009

Tribal Council Approves Hazard Mitigation Plan

On October 20 the Tribal Council approved the Red Cliff Tribal Hazard Mitigation Plan (RCTHMP).

This plan is a comprehensive document that identifies the natural and human-caused hazards most likely to affect the Red Cliff community and outlines strategies to reduce or eliminate the long-term risks from these hazards. The Tribe can reference the plan and may use it as a tool to prioritize projects, planning community development, and protecting our lands, culture and people.

Tribal Council approval of the RCTHMP is a critical step to close out the FEMA grant PDMC-PLWIIT001-2018-001 that supported the plan’s development. This adopted Hazard Mitigation Plan will also position Red Cliff for future funding opportunities, as FEMA and other federal agencies require a current, approved mitigation plan to apply for pre-disaster mitigation and resilience grants.

The plan is now awaiting FEMA approval. Please call 715-779-3650 with any questions.

Health Center Publishes Vaccine Recommendations; Vaccine Clinic Dates

Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the community from serious illness. Each year, updated vaccines target the newest strains of circulating viruses to help prevent severe infection, hospitalization, and long-term complications.

Recommended Vaccines

Flu (Influenza) Vaccine – 2025–2026 Season

• Recommended for: Everyone aged 6 months and older annually.
• Timing: Ideally by late October 2025, before flu activity peaks.
• Formulations:
• Standard flu shot (for most adults)
• High-dose or adjuvanted vaccine (for adults 65+)
• Benefits: Reduces risk of flu illness, hospitalizations, and complications like pneumonia.

COVID-19 Vaccine – 2025–2026 Formulation

• Recommended for: All individuals aged 6 months and older, especially adults 65+, those with chronic conditions, and healthcare workers annually.
• What’s new: The 2025–2026 updated vaccine targets the most recent circulating COVID-19 variants.
• Booster guidance every 6 months: One updated dose is recommended for people over 65 and under age 65 if immune compromised.
• Co-administration: Safe to receive with your flu vaccine during the same visit.

Whooping Cough (Pertussis) – Tdap Vaccine

• Adults: A one-time Tdap booster (if not received as a teen), then a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years or sooner (after 5 years) if you have a wound that poses a risk for tetanus.
• Pregnant women: One dose during each pregnancy, ideally between 27–36 weeks.
• Children: DTaP series at 2, 4, 6, 15–18 months, and 4–6 years, with a Tdap booster at 11–12 years.
• Any family members that will be around a newborn this winter season should receive a Tdap.
• Why: Protects infants and vulnerable adults from a highly contagious respiratory illness.

MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) Vaccine

• Children: Two doses — first at 12–15 months, second at 4–6 years.
• Adults: Ensure two documented doses if born in 1957 or later. Those in healthcare, education, or frequent travelers should double-check immunity.
• Why: Prevents outbreaks of measles and mumps, which are resurging in the US and globally.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccine

• Adults aged 60 and older: One RSV vaccine dose, ideally before the RSV season (fall/winter months)
• Pregnant women: One dose during weeks 32–36 of pregnancy September through January to protect newborns during their first months of life.
• Infants and young children: Infants younger than 8 months entering their first RSV season should receive RSV immunization (nirsevimab) for added protection
• Why: RSV can cause severe respiratory illness, especially in infants, older adults, and those with chronic heart or lung disease
• Timing: Typically offered in early fall before RSV activity increases.

Red Cliff Vaccine Clinic Dates - Protect Our Community Through Immunity!

You are also able to schedule an appointment at any time - call the Health Center at 715-779-3707.

Elders

10/28/2025 @ Elderly Feeding Center 12:00-2:00 PM

10/28/2025 @ Richard Gurnoe Villa 2:00-3:00 PM

Employees

10/29/2025 @ Health Center 1:30-4:00 PM

10/30/2025 @ Health Center 1:30-4:00 PM

All Community Members

11/4/2025 @ Health Center 1:30-4:00 PM

11/5/2025 @ EMS Hall 3:00-6:00 PM

11/6/2025 @ Health Center 1:30-4:00 PM

11/13/2025 @ Health Center 1:30-4:00 PM

November 19, 2025

3:00 - 6:00 PM during the Red Cliff Health Fair

Red Cliff Community Health Center

COVID / Flu

Take everyday preventative actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with viruses that cause flu and covid-19.

For questions on any of the above clinics, please call Michele Doster, RN at 715-779-3707 extension 2229.

Child Care Business Funding Opportunity

Red Cliff childcare givers / those interested in opening a childcare business: Here is a wonderful opportunity for starting a licensed childcare business!

❗ You can receive $7,780 in funding through a program offered by WECA (Wisconsin Early Childhood Association).

✅ Participants will receive:

-Financial assistance for completing the licensing program

-Support and resources to become a licensed provider

-One-on-one business coaching

📌 Licensed vs. Certified – Quick Overview:

-Certified providers may care for up to 3 unrelated children

-Licensed providers may care for up to 4 unrelated children

-Licensing requires a fence, certified providers are not required

Red Cliff offers assistance to help Red Cliff households become certified, while the State of Wisconsin supports those pursuing licensing.

See flyer below for more details and contact information!

Interested or Know Someone Who Might Be?

Contact the Red Cliff Child Care Program at Family & Human Services:

Phone: 715-779-3706 ext. 5015

Email: brenda.salas@redcliff-nsn.gov

Winter Gear Order For JOM Students

The Red Cliff JOM Committee will be purchasing a bulk order of winter gear for JOM eligible students.

JOM eligible families with students in need of winter boots are encouraged to complete this brief form at the button below.

While the JOM Committee cannot guarantee everyone will receive what they have requested, providing this information will help us to place an order of winter gear that will be more likely to meet the needs of your student.

Elder Snowplow Information & Application

Aaniin Elders! The Tribe is again offering free snowplowing services for elders aged 62 and older this winter.

❗ If you were on the Elder snowplow list last year and want to remain on the list, you do not need to do anything. As a reminder, please be sure to view the terms at the button below.

If you were not on the list last year, but want to be added, please fill out an application available at the Tribal Administration Building or at the Elderly Feeding Center. The application is also available online at the button below.

Please call 715-779-3700 ext 4401 with any questions.

"Soup There It Is" Event Raises Over $1,300 for Kids Christmas

🤩 Chi-Miigwech to all who participated in our “Soup There It Is” fundraiser last week for this year’s Kids Christmas events! We raised over $1,300. Aho!

👏 Mino Bimaadiziiwin Gitigaanin won the soup competition with "Gitigaan Nabob" — A garden soup. All ingredients were from the Farm! Their Farm Stand with fresh produce is still open on Fridays beginning at 10 AM, available until gone.

❗ We also hosted a Halloween-themed bingo fundraiser this past Sunday. Thank you for the amazing support! All proceeds will benefit the Kids Christmas events. Stay tuned for Kids Christmas details and sign up form!

Manoomin Reseeding Tuesday & Wednesday

🌾 We've got two manoomin reseeding dates this week! All are welcome to join.

9 AM - Noon both days:

Tuesday October 28 @ Frog Bay

Wednesday October 29 @ Raspberry Campground

Please contact Manzanita with any questions at 715-779-3782.

Boys & Girls Club Continues Adventures During Club Renovation

Boozhoo Families and Community! The Boys & Girls Club youth are enjoying some fun adventures while the Club building is being renovated.

On Wednesday, October 15, both youth and staff were welcomed to the Boys & Girls Club in Bad River. Youth had the chance to tour the facility, meet new friends, and see how another Club operates. Staff connected with their Bad River counterparts to share ideas and learn about their setup, including the BGCA MyClubHub software, which will be implemented here in 2026.

Future plans include continued collaboration between the Clubs — such as lacrosse (baaga’adowewin), co-trips to the Bad River Wellness Center, and shared youth activities at the Bad River Club site.

On October 18, the Boys & Girls Club also visited Amnicon Falls, where youth and staff enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the beautiful waterfalls. A sack lunch was provided, and staff highlighted the flora and fauna of the area as youth explored. The group then stopped at Cornucopia Beach, where everyone had fun playing by the lake and enjoying the playground. Youth shared that they “can’t wait for the next adventure!”

The Club will continue to provide meaningful, educational, and fun opportunities for youth during the renovation period.

If any community youth would like to join in on the fun, please contact:

📧 Joe Newago Jr. – Joseph.Newago@redcliff-nsn.gov

📧 Christopher Hillert – Chris.Hillert@redcliff-nsn.gov

We’ll keep the community updated on all the great things happening with our Boys & Girls Club youth! Stay tuned for the Club's November calendar!

Board & Committee Openings

The Red Cliff Tribal Council is seeking community members to serve on various boards and committees. Our community becomes better when we have members dedicated to serving in our Tribal government.

You do not have to live in Red Cliff to serve on a board or committee!

Tap the button below to see all openings and apply.

Domestic Violence Awareness: You Are Not Alone

Red Cliff's Family Violence Prevention Program provides help to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and victims of crime. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please don't hesitate to call 715-779-3706. You are not alone!

Notice of Name Change Hearings

Notice is herein given that on the 4th day of November 2025 at 11:00 a.m., the Red Cliff Tribal Court will hear and consider the petition of Frances Gordon on behalf of her minor children for permission to change their names from QLR, JR to SPG and from NMR to NJG. If any person wishes to be heard on this matter or has any objections to said petition, they are to contact the Red Cliff Tribal Court.

Heather Deragon

Clerk of Court

88455 Pike Road, Hwy 13

Bayfield, WI 54814

Trunk or Treat This Thursday!

🎃 Red Cliff Tribal Departments and Programs will host their annual Trunk or Treat event on Thursday October 30 from 3:00 - 6:00 PM.

All are welcome to stop by participating Department locations for yummy treats and Halloween-themed fun.

See flyer and map below for all locations!

Parents: Looking For Childcare?

New Shares Rates Help Families Pay For Child Care

Aaniin Parents! Did you know you are able to apply for WI Shares if you find a certified or licensed family / group that provides your child care?

Wisconsin Shares helps eligible families by paying for a portion of child care costs while parents or caregivers go to work, school, and more. Check out the WI Share Child Care Estimator tool HERE. Knowing your potential subsidy amount can help you determine your out-of-pocket costs. Find licensed / certified providers HERE.

New WI Shares Rates

There are new WI Shares rates you can receive if you find certified / licensed child care. See the new rates and examples of your Shares amounts HERE.

Contact Red Cliff's Childcare Task Force by calling 715-779-3706 or email childcare@redcliff-nsn.gov for more information.